On Wellbeing for construction

On Wellbeing for Construction

Construction is one of the UK’s largest sectors, contributing £138bn to the economy each year and employing 9% of the total UK workforce.¹ Yet despite its critical role in the economy, growing concerns about the prevalence of poor mental health throughout the sector pose a threat to its future.

Almost half of the UK’s construction workforce finds it challenging to speak up about their mental health, which often prevents individuals from getting the support they need.² It’s up to businesses in the sector to provide mental wellbeing support targeting the most common issues faced by tradespeople, from plumbers and electricians to bricklayers and plasterers. Positive change can come from action and education, helping eliminate harmful stigmas in the industry and build a better understanding of mental wellbeing.

The On Wellbeing app-based platform offers a simple solution to improve the understanding of mental wellbeing for all in the construction industry. We provide the tools needed to support employees dealing with common issues, including stress, anxiety and depression.

Mental health in construction

The prevalence of poor mental health affects employees and businesses in the construction sector. Prioritising mental wellbeing support can reverse the damage caused by a lack of understanding, education and discussion about the issues being faced by so many.

How it affects businesses

Research shows more than 5.1mn working days are lost each year because of poor mental health across the construction sector in the UK. Because of the stigma in the industry, employees are also more likely to lie about their absence when it’s related to mental health.³

This impacts productivity, employee retention and employee satisfaction. And because of the lack of open dialogue, these issues will keep returning unless something is done to improve the situation.

How it affects employees

Depression, anxiety and stress account for one-fifth of work-related illnesses in the UK’s construction industry.⁴ The demanding nature of construction work, including tight deadlines, difficult physical labour, long hours and time away from loved ones, can contribute to multiple mental health challenges. Tradespeople are also reportedly 26% more likely to experience poor mental health than workers in other industries.⁵

Despite the prevalence of poor mental wellbeing, employees in construction are among the least likely to bring up their issues at work or with loved ones. This creates a barrier to receiving the help and support they need to improve their mental wellbeing.

Why construction workers need mental wellbeing support

In the construction industry, mental health issues are a leading cause of lost workdays and contribute significantly to many workplace incidents.³ Mental wellbeing has significant consequences for this sector’s workforce, yet it’s often overlooked in business policies and operations, even when health and safety are prioritised. Further pressures come from the fact that fewer than a third of UK tradespeople experiencing poor mental health have access to free counselling or helplines from their employer.⁵ There is an urgent need to address gaps in support, reduce stress and prevent accidents and incidents relating to mental wellbeing.

Access to support is essential for workers in the construction sector. It acts as the first step toward improving workplace culture and removing stigmas around mental health. Implementing a strong mental wellbeing support programme allows businesses to encourage openness and prioritise mental wellbeing, resulting in a happier and healthier workforce. Construction businesses that invest in their employees’ mental wellbeing can expect to see fewer workplace incidents, reduced employee turnover and lower absenteeism.